H. Aschehoug & Co. (W. Nygaard), commonly known as Aschehoug,(pronounced [ˈɑskəˈhæʉ]) is one of the largest independent publishing companies in Norway, founded in 1872. Headquartered in Oslo, the publishing house has 480 employees. The Aschehoug group also comprises other publishing houses owned partially or wholly by Aschehoug. Aschehoug literally means "ash hill."